Enthusiastic Instruction: I will provide high-quality, positive, and energetic musical instruction tailored to a multi-generational group dynamic.

Accessible Learning: I will ensure all music is accessible, whether taught via standard notation, lead sheets, or rote/oral/aural traditions.

Cultural & Technical Context: I will teach proper physical technique (to prevent injury and instrument damage) and honor the rich Caribbean history of the steelpan artform.

Communication: I will clearly communicate rehearsal schedules, any performance logistics, and any emergency changes (e.g., cancellations) in a timely manner.

Students agree to arrive at each lesson prepared to learn and advocate for themselves and their learning. For songs taught by rote, it may be useful to have a

Parents: If something is happening at home or school that is affecting your child please let me know. The more information I have, the more I can be sensitive to the needs of your child.

Group classes are scheduled for one meeting per week, with tuition based on the total number of scheduled meetings for the course. Tuition is not adjusted for individual absences, and all payments are non-refundable.

Because this is a group lesson, attendance is a shared responsibility, and the Director cannot guarantee a make-up session for a missed class. That said, reasonable effort will be made to arrange one where possible — typically on a Saturday, or by arrangement with the Director to extend slightly beyond a regularly scheduled class for catch-up or personalized assistance. All make-up lessons are scheduled on a case-by-case basis and do not count as credit toward the following month's tuition. Absences without prior communication to the Director are considered a forfeited lesson.

If the Director must cancel a lesson, members will be given as much notice as possible. For planned vacations or other conflicts known in advance, please communicate with the Director as early as possible so alternate arrangements can be discussed.

Because this is a group lesson, attendance is a shared responsibility, and the Director cannot guarantee a make-up session for a missed class. That said, reasonable effort will be made to arrange one where possible. All make-up lessons are scheduled on a case-by-case basis and do not count as credit toward the following month's tuition.

If the Director must cancel a lesson, members will be given as much notice as possible.

Tuition is based on the total number of scheduled meetings for the course and is not adjusted for individual absences. For planned vacations or other conflicts known in advance, please communicate with the Director as early as possible so alternate arrangements can be discussed.

The steelpans used in this program are rented from a third party. Because these hand-crafted instruments are incredibly valuable and costly to repair, please exercise the utmost caution when using, moving, or adjusting them and any other musical equipment:

The "Hands-Off" Rule: Only registered members of the ensemble are permitted to touch or play the instruments. Friends, relatives, or audience members are strictly prohibited from handling the pans or mallets without explicit permission from the Director/Instructor.

Mallets: Members should use only the correct rubber-tipped mallets provided for their specific pan section. 

Personal Objects: Personal items (including, keys, water bottles, etc.) should be placed inside or on top of the pans or stands at any time.

Damage & Detuning: If you notice a "buzzing" note, a loose wing-nut on a stand, or experience an accidental drop, report it to the Director immediately. Do not attempt to alter, tune, or fix a pan yourself.

Members are expected to commit to the full course. Ensemble playing depends on everyone working together. Your consistent presence is part of what makes the sound whole.

From time to time I use photos and short videos of the participants on the steelband website, or in social media posts. These videos and posts are encouraging to future participants. If you do not want your image(s) to be used, please let me know. The participants are identified only by first name.